Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert Mourn the Loss of Beloved Dog Romie
Hough remembers a lifelong companion
Hough, a Dancing with the Stars judge, announced Romie’s death in an Instagram video posted Sunday, October 25. He said the dog had been beside him for 14 years and wrote that he missed him deeply.
In his caption, Hough recalled that Romie entered his life when he was trying to find his way. He described the dog as a steady presence who loved him through difficult and good times, and said Romie had given him purpose.
Romie shared major life changes
Hough said Romie watched him grow up, fall in love and become a husband. When the dog grew tired, Hough asked him to hold on until he could meet his “little sister,” and said Romie did so.
Hough described waking without Romie as unreal and said he still looked toward the place where the dog used to appear. He called the grief unbearable, while also seeing it as evidence of the love they shared.
Erbert shares her tribute
Erbert said she had the privilege of loving Romie for 11 years. She called him her first dog after moving to Los Angeles and remembered him as an adventure companion, snuggler and gentle member of the family.
She thanked Hough for bringing Romie into her life and described him as a protector and a sweet big brother to Luna and Everley. Erbert said she would carry him with her and love him for the rest of her life.
Key points
- Derek Hough said Romie was his companion for 14 years.
- Hayley Erbert said she loved Romie for 11 years.
- Hough described Romie as a constant through major changes in his life.
- Erbert remembered Romie as a protector and companion to Luna and Everley.